Phyllocladus trichomanoides

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Tanekaha

Least Concern  (IUCN 2.3)[1]
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Gymnospermae
Division: Pinophyta
Class: Pinopsida
Order:
Araucariales
Family: Podocarpaceae
Genus: Phyllocladus
Species:
P. trichomanoides
Binomial name
Phyllocladus trichomanoides
D.Don

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, the tānekaha or celery pine, is a

coniferous tree endemic to New Zealand
.

Description

Tānekaha is a medium-sized forest tree growing up to 25 m in height and 1 m trunk diameter.[2] The main structural shoots are green-skinned for 2–3 years, then turn brown as the bark thickens. The leaves are sparse, tiny, scale-like, 2–3 mm long, and only green (photosynthetic) for a short time, soon turning brown.

Most photosynthesis is performed by phylloclades, highly modified, leaf-like short shoots; these are arranged alternately, 10-15 on a shoot, the individual phylloclades rhombic, 1.5-2.5 cm long. The seed cones are berry-like, with a fleshy white aril surrounding but not fully enclosing the single seed.

Distribution

In the North Island this species is found in lowland forests from Te Paki to 40°S.[2] In the South Island this species is found in northern Marlborough and Nelson to 41°30'S.[2]

Pests and diseases

This species plays host to the New Zealand endemic beetle Agapanthida morosa.[3]

Economic uses

Like the

timber
which is sought after for its strength.

The bark is rich in tannin, from which Māori extracted a red dye.

References

  1. ^ "Phyllocladus trichomanoides D.Don". GBIF. Retrieved 14 November 2021.
  2. ^ .
  3. .

External links